Background...The original 'Gladys Kravitz', actress Alice Pearce, died of cancer mid-way into the series' 2nd season. Mary Grace Canfield came in for several episodes as 'Harriet,' sister of 'Abner Kravitz' (George Tobias). In season 2's hiatus, Sandra Gould was hired to play a recasted 'Gladys Kravitz,' and Mary Grace was let go. (Ms. Gould played the role for seasons 3 - 7.)